Jason Miller, a senior adviser to Donald Trump with extensive experience in his campaigns, discusses the former president's unconventional strategy as Election Day approaches. They delve into how Trump is using podcasts and relatable storytelling to connect with voters, despite the controversies surrounding him. Miller defends Trump's approach to engage with middle America and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in political messaging. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by other candidates like Kamala Harris in the current political landscape.
Trump's campaign is leveraging non-traditional media like podcasts to reshape his image and connect with voters on a personal level.
The upcoming election presents a critical test of contrasting strategies, as both Trump and Harris intensify their public engagement efforts amidst criticisms.
Deep dives
Restoring Protections for Dialysis Patients
The Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act aims to reinstate crucial insurance protections for dialysis patients. This bipartisan legislation seeks to ensure that patients' spouses and children do not lose their health coverage due to one family member's medical needs. By protecting consumer choice and alleviating pressure on Medicare, the bill addresses the urgent necessity for comprehensive care for families affected by dialysis. Its implementation is seen as a vital step to safeguard the well-being of countless individuals reliant on these treatments.
Trump's Image Transformation Strategy
Trump's campaign has successfully shifted his public persona from a controversial figure to a relatable entertainer. This transformation has included appearances on non-traditional media formats such as podcasts and YouTube channels where he engages in unscripted conversations about everyday life. Many believe this tactic has resonated with voters who appreciate a more humanized version of the former president, allowing them to connect with his policies on a personal level. By doing so, Trump's team is working to erase the social stigma long associated with his political career.
The Effectiveness of Non-Traditional Media
Utilizing non-traditional media has proven to be a significant aspect of Trump's campaign, reaching individuals who typically do not engage with mainstream news outlets. In an age where many Americans consume content via social media and podcasts, this approach permits deeper connections with audiences on relevant issues. Engaging with well-known podcasters allows for extended discussions on critical topics, such as the economy and addiction, rather than the typical soundbite approach of traditional journalism. This strategy not only helps to showcase Trump in a more favorable light but also emphasizes his commitment to addressing real-world issues faced by voters.
Challenges and Comparisons with Opponents
The campaign faces notable challenges as Trump's opponents, particularly Kamala Harris, have also ramped up their public engagement efforts. Harris's attempts to connect with voters have encountered criticism following perceived strategic missteps, such as failing to articulate a clear agenda in contrast to Biden. Meanwhile, Trump's campaign capitalizes on his experience in the political arena while confronting accusations of being a threat to democracy. Ultimately, the unfolding election will serve as a litmus test for the effectiveness of their contrasting strategies in swaying voter sentiment.
Election Day is less than two weeks away. And Donald Trump has been employing an innovative strategy to keep Democrats’ — and an increasingly large number of Republicans’ — doubts about his fitness for office at bay. The former president has been burnishing his image on a nontraditional media spread of podcasts, golf outings, and shifts working at McDonald's.
To understand Trump’s own thinking about the campaign, including the risks of this unorthodox strategy and the most recent indictments of his character, Playbook co-author Rachael Bade sat down with one of his most trusted advisers: Jason Miller.
Miller and Trump have a long history together. He’s worked on each of Trump’s campaigns since 2016, in roles ranging from comms guru to senior strategist, and he isn’t afraid to elaborate on the campaign’s strategy or defend Trump’s most controversial comments.
Rachael Bade is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO.
Jason Miller is a senior adviser to President Donald Trump.